What is the best recovery device for runners?
Sleep.
But in all seriousness, sleep will help you recover from hard workouts faster and more successfully. Plus, it’s free.
The other thing is the best recovery devices for runners are the ones you use. If you just let your foam roller or massage gun sit in the closet, they aren’t going to help you. It could be the best device out there!
But if you are looking for the best recovery devices for runners, here are a few more:
Of any recovery device for runners, I like the Sidekick Swerve Tool because it helps relieve sore muscles. The Sidekick Swerve Tool is a muscle scraping device that helps target muscles. All of Sidekick’s tools are designed to release adhesions under the skin from muscle overuse or injuries. Adhesions can make muscles tight and by releasing them you will increase the blood flow. Your muscles will feel looser and more fluid with a greater range of motion.
The massage gun industry has exploded in the last few years. Now it seems like there are more massage guns than running shoes. One of the reasons I think the Addaday BioZoom Massage Gun is one of the best recovery devices for runners is due to the price. It’s one of the cheaper options, comes with several different attachments, and is easy to use. A common complaint about massage guns is some more affordable options breaking after a year. I’ve had mine for several years, and it hasn’t broken.
This is one of the newest recovery devices for runners and athletes.
What lands it a spot on the best recovery devices? I appreciate how portable it is while traveling. I never had cupping done until moving to Southern California, but it can help you recover. I was able to bring the Achedaway Cupper to the East Coast and travel with it. The Achedaway Cupper isn’t limited to the best recovery device for runners, and it can help anyone with back pain, shoulder, or anywhere else. I’ve used it several times on my shoulders after swimming and felt better.
When used correctly, compression socks and sleeves promote blood flow to the area. Blood flow can help you recover faster. It’s important to note that you want to look for medical-grade compression. Many compression socks are just glorified tube socks and aren’t going to promote blood flow to your legs and feet.
What makes the Theragun one of the best recovery devices for runners? While I haven’t done a full review on the Theragun, I’ve used it plenty of times. They are the most pricy massage gun, with some models over $500. Are Theraguns worth it? Any tool is only worth it if you actually use it. The Theragun does go deeper than other massage guns (and it’s quieter). If you are looking for the best of the best, it’s your option.
R8:
I realized I’ve never done a full review on the R8 either. If you’ve ever seen the R8, it looks like a giant set of rollerblades. What makes the R8 special? It clamps down on your muscles and allows you to get deeper than a traditional foam roller. This is one of the best recovery devices for runners, especially for the legs. It’s nearly impossible to really get into your glutes or hip, but it can help find knots in your calves and legs.
So what are the best recovery devices for runners?
The ones you actually use. There are plenty of gadgets out there now, but if you aren’t using the one you purchased, it doesn’t matter. It’s interesting how fast this accessory industry to running has grown. In 2016, there were very few massage guns on the market, now, there are dozens.
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Questions for you:
What is your favorite recovery device for runners?
How do you recover after a hard session?